Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Punjab, was established by the State Legislature of Punjab by passing the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab Act, 2006 (Punjab Act No. 12 of 2006). The Act incorporated a University of Law of national stature in Punjab, thereby fulfilling the need for a Centre of Excellence in legal education in the modern era of globalization and liberalization. RGNUL started functioning from its Headquarters-Mohindra Kothi, The Mall, Patiala w.e.f. 26 May 2006. The University acquired approval of the Bar Council of India (BCI) in July 2006. The University also got registered with the University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi under Section 2(f) of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956 and has been declared fit to obtain grant from the (UGC) under Section 12-B of the UGC Act, 1956.
Presently, RGNUL is functioning from a heritage building of the erstwhile Patiala State, that is, Mohindra Kothi, The Mall, Patiala located in the heart of Patiala city in a pollution free environment. Keeping in view the requirements of a National University of Law, necessary infrastructure has been developed in the form of classrooms, lectures halls, computer labs, library, reading hall, health centre, gymnasium and other sports facilities. There are separate buildings such as Administrative Block, Academic Block, Library, Hostels, Mess House, Canteen etc. to cater to the needs of a national institution.